Programs & Services

Interphase EDGE FAQ

Interphase EDGE
Empowering Discovery | Gateway to Excellence

What is Interphase EDGE?

Interphase EDGE is a two-year scholar enrichment program that includes a seven-week summer session as well as programming during the academic year. The focus of the summer program is to give scholars an introduction to the MIT experience by exposing them to the rigors of a full subject load and to life on campus. In addition, the Interphase EDGE curriculum is uniquely designed to impart pivotal concepts that will increase long-term academic success. In other words, the program will not only give students an “edge” on their MIT experience; it will catalyze their success beyond MIT. During the summer and academic year, scholars will participate in a range of personal and educational development seminars and activities designed to ensure their smooth transition to college life. Throughout the academic year, scholars will continue to build upon the relationships created during the summer by attending bi-weekly meetings with EDGE advisors and monthly professional and academic enhancement events, including programs that will expose them to various career pathways.

Applying to Interphase EDGE

What are the differences between Interphase and Interphase EDGE?

Interphase EDGE has the addition of a two-year academic advising component, as well as a new and exciting physics and communications curriculum.

Why did Interphase become Interphase EDGE?

After an assessment of Interphase, OME determined that it could provide a more comprehensive experience to participants if it lasted longer than the summer.

How do I apply to Interphase EDGE?

Application will go live on February 2016

Who is eligible to apply to Interphase EDGE?

All admitted MIT incoming freshmen who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents are eligible to apply, but only enrolled students may participate.

What do I have to submit to have a complete application?

Your application is considered complete when you have submitted your online Interphase EDGE application including your personal statement and a letter of recommendation.

The application asks for a non-academic letter of recommendation. Who can write that for me?

This letter should be written by someone who has known/worked with you for at least 2 years. This person can be a teacher who is an extra-curricular advisor or who has a relationship with you outside of academics, a coach, a minister, a scout leader, etc. A letter of recommendation from a family member will not be accepted.

If I have a question about the application process whom can I contact?

You may either email interphase@mit.edu or call the OME at (617) 253-5010. We will try to respond to all questions within 48 hours except for questions submitted on weekends including Fridays or holidays.

What is the selection process?

You can submit an application as soon as the online application opens, but your application will not be reviewed until after you have been admitted to MIT. Once admitted, your MIT application will be reviewed along with your Interphase EDGE application. A selection committee will determine which applicants will become Interphase EDGE scholars.

What if my graduation date is after the start of the summer component of Interphase EDGE?

You are still strongly encouraged to apply, and we will make decisions on a case-by-case basis.

How will I be notified if I am selected or waitlisted for Interphase EDGE?

Notification will be sent to the email address provided on your application.

Once you've been accepted...

Do I have to commit to the entire two years?

Yes. We are looking for students willing to dedicate two years to the program.

What happens if I am not selected as an Interphase EDGE scholar?

You will still be able to participate in the breadth of programs offered by the OME and MIT. There are several great programs such as Master Your Future, Pathways to Graduate School, Seminar XL, Mentor Advocate Partnership, and Laureates and Leaders that will help you with your professional and/or academic goals.

When does the Interphase EDGE program officially end?

You will participate in Interphase EDGE events through the end of spring semester of your sophomore year.

Who will be my academic advisor(s)?

More details about advising forthcoming.

What are the program dates for the summer part of Interphase EDGE 2016 Program?

The 2016 Interphase EDGE summer component will run from Wednesday, June 22, 2016, to Friday, August 12, 2016. If you plan to leave after Interphase EDGE, please schedule your travel for no earlier than the 5 p.m.EDT on Friday, August 12, 2016.

When is the deadline to apply?

The final deadline to apply is Thursday, April 21, 2016.

When will decisions be made?

All applicants will be notified no later than Wednesday, May 4, 2016 and no earlier than Monday, May 2, 2016.

Once accepted, when do I need to notify your office of my decision to participate?

You need to either email (interphase@mit.edu) or fax your registration form to our office by 6 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, May 11, 2016. If you do not respond by the deadline, you WILL lose your spot.

How many students generally participate in the program?

We expect approximately 70 students.

What types of classes will I be taking over the summer?

You will be taking calculus, chemistry, physics, communication/writing classes, and physical education.

What if I have taken AP courses?

All students will take a KBA (knowledge-based assessment test) during their first days on campus to determine which section they will be placed in.

Do I still have to take the Freshman Essay Evaluation (FEE)?

Yes. Interphase EDGE scholars will be extremely busy with their summer curriculum and should plan to take the first FEE exam. For more information about the FEE refer to http://writing.mit.edu/wac/fee/deadlines.

Do I have to pay to for the summer component of Interphase EDGE?

No. You may want to bring money for personal and/or incidental items.

What happens to my student summer earnings expectation in my financial aid package during the summer component of Interphase EDGE?

Your student summer earnings expectation is waived in full for the first summer which is the required residential/on-campus summer component. For the second summer there is not a required residential/on-campus component, but 1/2 of your summer earnings expectation will be waived, if you meet the program requirements. For specific individual information about this waiver, please contact MIT’s Student Financial Services at http://web.mit.edu/sfs/

Can I plan to arrive early?

The earliest you can arrive at MIT is on Tuesday, June 21, at 5 p.m. If you arrive prior to Wednesday, June 22, be prepared to arrange for your own transportation from the airport to your dormitory. A taxi ride from either South Station or Logan Airport will cost approximately $30 to $35.

Will there be transportation?

Yes. We provide transportation on arrival day only from as early as 7:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. from Logan Airport or South Station. If you arrive after 4 p.m., you may need to arrange for your own transportation to campus. The MBTA train from the airport to MIT is $2.50. A taxi ride will cost between $30 and $35.

I will not be able to arrive by Wednesday, June 22 (because my family is out of town, etc.). Can I arrive late?

No. Arriving late is not possible because you will miss the orientation, several introductory meetings, and placement testing for your courses. Classes begin on June 27th, 2016. You will not be placed into a section until you take the placement exams in physics, chemistry, and calculus.

Can I select my roommate for the summer program?

No. Your roommate will be selected for you.

Can I have visitors during the summer program?

No. Your academic demands, along with the planned social activities, will not leave you with much time for socializing outside of the program.

Am I allowed to go home during the summer program?

No. The summer program is quite demanding and, except for rare or pre-arranged exceptions, you will not be allowed to go home.